Trump's grand show for Xi masks a summit short on substance

President Trump's summit with China's leader Xi Jinping this week produced no significant agreements, surprising even close China watchers despite low expectations. The meeting was largely ceremonial, projecting managed competition between the two superpowers. Industry pleas and bipartisan calls for a framework on artificial intelligence went unheeded, while a trade truce was extended only two months. Trump also warned Xi against assisting Iran, but Chinese parts reportedly continue arriving in Tehran. Analysts describe the relationship as a "managed stalemate" stabilized at the top without stabilizing underneath. The visit featured lavish pageantry, including Trump patting Xi's back and showing controversial White House renovations, including a mocking portrait of former President Biden. Xi called for AI to remain "under human control" and invoked the Thucydides trap, arguing it can be overcome. The two leaders are expected to meet twice more this year.